Projectile Motion - Finding theta

From there, you can use trigonometry to find the angle and magnitude of the initial velocity vector. In summary, you are given a parabola graph with x intervals of 0.1000s and need to find R, Tt, H, V0, a, and θ. Using the equations Tt= 2 (Vsinθ/g), R= (V2sin2θ)/g, and H=(Vsinθ)2)/2g, you can observe the graph to find Tt, R, and H. Then, by looking at the x and y directions separately, you can determine the initial velocity and use trigonometry to find the angle and magnitude.
  • #1
tatterspwn
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0

Homework Statement


Iv'e been given a graphed parabola with each x interval at 0.1000s. From this I need to find R, Tt, H, V0, a and θ.

Homework Equations


Tt= 2 (Vsinθ/g)
R= (V2sin2θ)/g
H=(Vsinθ)2)/2g

The Attempt at a Solution


From observing the graph I know:
dx and dy at every 1/10 of a second.
Tt= 2.000s
R= 14.50cm
H= 10.00cm

From here I have no idea how to find V0 or θ. I'm not sure what one I have to find first in order to get the other. Any help is appreciated.
 
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  • #2
it sounds like you were given the distance that the object traveled and its max height through this graph

by looking at the x-direction and y-direction separately, you should be able to determine the initial velocity in both the x and y directions
 

FAQ: Projectile Motion - Finding theta

What is projectile motion?

Projectile motion is the motion of an object through the air or space under the influence of gravity. It follows a curved path known as a parabola.

How do you find theta in projectile motion?

To find theta, or the launch angle, in projectile motion, you can use the formula theta = tan^-1 (vy/vx), where vy is the vertical velocity and vx is the horizontal velocity.

What factors affect the trajectory of a projectile?

The factors that affect the trajectory of a projectile include the initial velocity, launch angle, air resistance, and the force of gravity. Other factors such as wind and air density can also have an impact.

Can you find theta if only given the horizontal and vertical distances?

Yes, you can use the formula theta = tan^-1 (y/x), where x is the horizontal distance and y is the vertical distance, to find theta without knowing the initial velocity or time of flight.

How does the launch angle affect the range of a projectile?

The launch angle has a significant impact on the range of a projectile. The optimal launch angle for maximum range is 45 degrees, as it allows for an equal amount of horizontal and vertical displacement. Any angle above or below 45 degrees will result in a shorter range.

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